Prognostic value of pre-operative mean corpuscular volume (MCV) in colorectal cancer

BACKGROUND

Mean corpuscular volume (MCV) has been shown to have some correlation to oncological outcomes in oesophageal cancer, with high pre-operative MCV associated with disease recurrence. A similar association has previously been reported in colorectal cancer.

AIMS

This study is aimed at investigating whether high MCV bears similar relation to post-operative outcome and disease recurrence in colorectal cancer (CRC).

METHODS

Patients undergoing elective CRC resection with curative intent between January 2008 and December 2019 were identified from our prospective database. Review of patient demographic details, American Society of Anaesthesiologists (ASA) grade, smoking and alcohol intake were performed. In addition, tumour location and staging, operation performed, pre-operative laboratory data and oncological management of each patient were noted. Post-operative morbidity (Clavien-Dindo (CD) score > 2), 30-day mortality, in-hospital mortality and cancer recurrence were examined and multivariable regression analysis was performed to predict these outcomes.

RESULTS

A total of 1,293 CRCs were resected, with 1,159 patients (89.7%) experiencing a hospital course without major morbidity (CD < 3). 30-day mortality rate was less than 1% (12/1293). There were 176 patients (13.6%) with recurrence at follow-up. When multivariable regression analysis was performed, high pre-operative MCV did not predict negative post-operative or oncological outcomes.

CONCLUSION

MCV does not appear to be an independent prognostic factor for outcomes following elective CRC resection.

Assessing Circulating Tumour DNA (ctDNA) as a Biomarker for Anal Cancer Management: A Systematic Review

This systematic review investigates the potential of circulating tumour DNA (ctDNA) as a predictive biomarker in the management and prognosis of squamous cell carcinoma of the anal canal (SCCA). PubMed, EMBASE, and Cochrane Central Registry of Controlled Trials were searched until 7 January 2024. Selection criteria included research articles exploring ctDNA in the context of anal cancer treatment response, recurrence risk assessment, and consideration of salvage surgery. A total of eight studies were therefore included in the final review, examining a total of 628 patients. These studies focused on three main themes: SCCA diagnosis and staging, treatment response, and patient outcomes. Significant heterogeneity was observed in terms of patient cohort, study methodology, and ctDNA biomarkers. Four studies provided information on the sensitivity of ctDNA biomarkers in SCCA, with a range of 82-100%. Seven studies noted a correlation between pre-treatment ctDNA levels and SCCA disease burden, suggesting that ctDNA could play a role as a biomarker for the staging of SCCA. Across all seven studies with paired pre- and post-treatment ctDNA samples, a trend was seen towards decreasing ctDNA levels post-treatment, with specific identification of a 'fast elimination' group who achieve undetectable ctDNA levels prior to the end of treatment and may be less likely to experience treatment failure. Residual ctDNA detection post-treatment was associated with poorer patient prognosis. This systematic review identifies the broad potential of ctDNA as a useful and decisive tool in the management of SCCA. Further analysis of ctDNA biomarkers that include larger patient cohorts is required in order to clearly evaluate their potential role in clinical decision-making processes.

Primary closure versus vertical rectus abdominis myocutaneous (VRAM) flap closure of perineal wound following abdominoperineal resection-a systematic review and meta-analysis

PURPOSE/AIM

Perianal wound healing and/or complications are common following abdominoperineal resection (APR). Although primary closure is commonly undertaken, myocutaneous flap closure such as vertical rectus abdominis myocutaneous flap (VRAM) is thought to improve wound healing process and outcome. A comprehensive meta-analysis was performed to compare outcomes of primary closure versus VRAM flap closure of perineal wound following APR.

METHODS

PubMed, MEDLINE, EMBASE, and Cochrane Central Registry of Controlled Trials were comprehensively searched until the 8th of August 2023. Included studies underwent meta-analysis to compare outcomes of primary closure versus VRAM flap closure of perineal wound following APR. The primary outcome of interest was perineal wound complications, and the secondary outcomes were abdominal wound complications, dehiscence, wound healing time, length of hospital stay, and mortality.

RESULTS

Ten studies with 1141 patients were included. Overall, 853 patients underwent primary closure (74.8%) and 288 patients underwent VRAM (25.2%). Eight studies reported on perineal wound complications after APR: 38.2% (n = 263/688) in the primary closure group versus 32.8% (n = 80/244) in the VRAM group. Perineal complication rates were statistically significantly lower in the VRAM group versus primary closure ((M-H OR, 1.61; 95% CI 1.04-2.49; 

CONCLUSION

We highlight the advantage of VRAM flap closure over primary closure for perineal wounds following APR. However, tailoring operative strategy based on patient and disease factors remains important in optimising outcomes.

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Key Words

• Abdominoperineal resection
• Perineal complications
• Surgical oncology
• Vertical rectus abdominis myocutaneous flap

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Radiomics; Contemporary Applications in the Management of Anal Cancer; A Systematic Review

INTRODUCTION

The management of anal cancer relies on clinical and histopathological features for treatment decisions. In recent years, the field of radiomics, which involves the extraction and analysis of quantitative imaging features, has shown promise in improving management of pelvic cancers. The aim of this study was to evaluate the current application of radiomics in the management of anal cancer.

METHODS

A systematic search was conducted in Medline, EMBASE, and Web of Science databases. Inclusion criteria encompassed randomized and non-randomized trials investigating the use of radiomics to predict post-operative recurrence in anal cancer. Study quality was assessed using the QUADAS-2 and Radiomics Quality Score tools.

RESULTS

The systematic review identified a total of nine studies, with 589 patients examined. There were three main outcomes assessed in included studies: recurrence (6 studies), progression-free survival (2 studies), and prediction of human papillomavirus (HPV) status (1 study). Radiomics-based risk stratification models were found to provide valuable insights into treatment response and patient outcomes, with all developed signatures demonstrating at least modest accuracy (range: .68-1.0) in predicting their primary outcome.

CONCLUSION

Radiomics has emerged as a promising tool in the management of anal cancer. It offers the potential for improved risk stratification, treatment planning, and response assessment, thereby guiding personalized therapeutic approaches.

Radiogenomics: Contemporary Applications in the Management of Rectal Cancer

Radiogenomics, a sub-domain of radiomics, refers to the prediction of underlying tumour biology using non-invasive imaging markers. This novel technology intends to reduce the high costs, workload and invasiveness associated with traditional genetic testing via the development of 'imaging biomarkers' that have the potential to serve as an alternative 'liquid-biopsy' in the determination of tumour biological characteristics. Radiogenomics also harnesses the potential to unlock aspects of tumour biology which are not possible to assess by conventional biopsy-based methods, such as full tumour burden, intra-/inter-lesion heterogeneity and the possibility of providing the information of tumour biology longitudinally. Several studies have shown the feasibility of developing a radiogenomic-based signature to predict treatment outcomes and tumour characteristics; however, many lack prospective, external validation. We performed a systematic review of the current literature surrounding the use of radiogenomics in rectal cancer to predict underlying tumour biology.

Redo Pelvic Surgery and Combined Metastectomy for Locally Recurrent Rectal Cancer with Known Oligometastatic Disease: A Multicentre Review

INTRODUCTION

Historically, surgical resection for patients with locally recurrent rectal cancer (LRRC) had been reserved for those without metastatic disease. 'Selective' patients with limited oligometastatic disease (OMD) (involving the liver and/or lung) are now increasingly being considered for resection, with favourable five-year survival rates.

METHODS

A retrospective analysis of consecutive patients undergoing multi-visceral pelvic resection of LRRC with their oligometastatic disease between 1 January 2015 and 31 August 2021 across four centres worldwide was performed. The data collected included disease characteristics, neoadjuvant therapy details, perioperative and oncological outcomes.

RESULTS

Fourteen participants with a mean age of 59 years were included. There was a female preponderance (n = 9). Nine patients had liver metastases, four had lung metastases and one had both lung and liver disease. The mean number of metastatic tumours was 1.5 +/- 0.85. R0 margins were obtained in 71.4% (n = 10) and 100% (n = 14) of pelvic exenteration and oligometastatic disease surgeries, respectively. Mean lymph node yield was 11.6 +/- 6.9 nodes, with positive nodes being found in 28.6% (n = 4) of cases. A single major morbidity was reported, with no perioperative deaths. At follow-up, the median disease-free survival and overall survival were 12.3 months (IQR 4.5-17.5 months) and 25.9 months (IQR 6.2-39.7 months), respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

Performing radical multi-visceral surgery for LRRC and distant oligometastatic disease appears to be feasible in appropriately selected patients that underwent good perioperative counselling.

Metformin is a metabolic modulator and radiosensitiser in rectal cancer

Resistance to neoadjuvant chemoradiation therapy, is a major challenge in the management of rectal cancer. Increasing evidence supports a role for altered energy metabolism in the resistance of tumours to anti-cancer therapy, suggesting that targeting tumour metabolism may have potential as a novel therapeutic strategy to boost treatment response. In this study, the impact of metformin on the radiosensitivity of colorectal cancer cells, and the potential mechanisms of action of metformin-mediated radiosensitisation were investigated. Metformin treatment was demonstrated to significantly radiosensitise both radiosensitive and radioresistant colorectal cancer cells in vitro. Transcriptomic and functional analysis demonstrated metformin-mediated alterations to energy metabolism, mitochondrial function, cell cycle distribution and progression, cell death and antioxidant levels in colorectal cancer cells. Using ex vivo models, metformin treatment significantly inhibited oxidative phosphorylation and glycolysis in treatment naïve rectal cancer biopsies, without affecting the real-time metabolic profile of non-cancer rectal tissue. Importantly, metformin treatment differentially altered the protein secretome of rectal cancer tissue when compared to non-cancer rectal tissue. Together these data highlight the potential utility of metformin as an anti-metabolic radiosensitiser in rectal cancer.

Survival outcomes after synchronous para-aortic lymph node metastasis in colorectal cancer: A systematic review

BACKGROUND

Synchronous para-aortic lymph node metastasis (PALNM) in colorectal cancer (CRC) is a relatively rare clinical entity. There is a lack of consensus on management of these patients, and the role of para-aortic lymph node dissection (PALND) remains controversial. This systematic review aims to describe the survival outcomes in colorectal cancer with synchronous PALNM when lymph node dissection is performed.

METHODS

A systematic review of Pubmed, Embase and Web of Science databases for PALND in CRC was performed. Studies including patients with synchronous PALNM undergoing resection with curative intent, published from the year 2000 onwards, were included.

RESULTS

Twelve retrospective studies were included. Four studies reported survival outcomes for rectal cancer, two for colon cancer and six as colorectal. Survival outcomes for 356 patients were included. Average 5-year overall survival (OS) was 22.4%, 33.9% and 37.7% in the rectal, colon and colorectal groups respectively. Three year OS in the groups was 53.6%, 46.2% and 65.7%.

CONCLUSION

There remains a lack of quality data to confidently make recommendations regarding the management of synchronous PALNM in colon and rectal cancer cohorts. Retrospective data suggests a benefit in highly selective cohorts and therefore a case-by-case evaluation remains the standard of care.

Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumours (GIST) of the Rectum: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Background: Rectal gastrointestinal stromal tumours (GISTs) have many treatment options, but uncertainty remains regarding the best treatment regimen for this rare pathology. The aim of this review is to assess the optimal management approach including timing of chemotherapy. Methods: PubMed, EMBASE, and Cochrane databases were searched for relevant articles comparing the impact of radical vs. local excision, and neoadjuvant vs. adjuvant therapy had on outcomes in the management of rectal GISTs. We specifically evaluated the influence that the aforementioned factors had on margins, recurrence, overall survival, 5-year disease-free survival, and hospital length of stay. Results: Twenty-eight studies met our predefined criteria and were included in our study, twelve of which were included in the quantitative synthesis. When comparing neoadjuvant versus adjuvant chemotherapy, our meta-analysis noted no significance in terms of margin negativity (R0) (odds ratio [OR] 2.01, 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.7−5.79, p = 0.20) or recurrence rates (OR 0.22, 95% CI, 0.02−1.91, p = 0.17). However, there was a difference in overall 5-year survival in favour of neoadjuvant therapy (OR 3.19, 95% CI, 1.37−7.40, * p = 0.007). Comparing local excision versus radical excision, our meta-analysis observed no significance in terms of overall 5-year survival (OR1.31, 95% CI, 0.81−2.12, p = 0.26), recurrence (OR 0.67, 95% CI, 0.40−1.13, p = 0.12), or 5-year disease-free survival (OR 1.10, 95% CI, 0.55−2.19, p = 0.80). There was a difference in length of hospital stay with a reduced mean length of stay in local excision group (mean difference [MD] 6.74 days less in the LE group; 95% CI, −6.92−−6.56, * p =< 0.00001) as well as a difference in R0 rates in favour of radical resection (OR 0.68, 95% CI, 0.47−0.99, * p = 0.05). Conclusion: Neoadjuvant chemotherapy is associated with improved overall 5-year survival, while local excision is associated with reduced mean length of hospital stay. Further large-volume, prospective studies are required to further define the optimal treatment regimen in this complex pathology.

Minimum standards of pelvic exenterative practice: PelvEx Collaborative guideline

This document outlines the important aspects of caring for patients who have been diagnosed with advanced pelvic cancer. It is primarily aimed at those who are establishing a service that adequately caters to this patient group. The relevant literature has been summarized and an attempt made to simplify the approach to management of these complex cases.

Quality of life meta-analysis following coloanal anastomosis versus abdominoperineal resection for low rectal cancer

AIM

In low rectal cancers without sphincter involvement a permanent stoma can be avoided without compromising oncological safety. Functional outcomes following coloanal anastomosis (CAA) compared to abdominoperineal excision (APR) may be significantly different. This study examines all available comparative quality of life (QoL) data for patients undergoing CAA versus APR for low rectal cancer.

METHODS

Published studies with comparative data on QoL outcomes following CAA versus APR for low rectal cancer were extracted from electronic databases. The study was registered with PROSPERO and adhered to PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items in Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses) guidelines. Data was combined using random-effects models.

RESULTS

Seven comparative series examined QoL in 527 patients. There was no difference in the numbers receiving neoadjuvant radiotherapy in the APR and CAA groups (OR: 1.19, 95% CI: 0.78-1.81, p = 0.43). CAA was associated with higher mean scores for physical functioning(std mean diff -7.08, 95% CI: -11.92 to -2.25, p = 0.004) and body image (std. mean diff 11.11, 95% CI: 6.04-16.18, p < 0.0001). Male sexual problems were significantly increased in patients who had undergone APR compared to CAA (std. mean diff -16.20, 95% CI: -25.76 to -6.64, p = 0.0009). Patients who had an APR reported more fatigue, dyspnoea and appetite loss. Those who had a CAA reported higher scores for both constipation and diarrhoea.

DISCUSSION

It is reasonable to offer a CAA to motivated patients where oncological outcomes will not be threatened. QoL outcomes appear to be superior when intestinal continuity is maintained, and permanent stoma avoided.

Prostate radiotherapy and the risk of secondary rectal cancer-a meta-analysis

PURPOSE

Radiotherapy is being used increasingly in the treatment of prostate cancer. However, ionising radiation may confer a small risk of a radiation-induced secondary malignancy. We aim to assess the risk of rectal cancer following pelvic radiotherapy for prostate cancer.

METHODS

A search was conducted of the PubMed/MEDLINE, EMBASE and Web of Science databases identifying studies reporting on the risk of rectal cancer following prostatic radiotherapy. Studies must have included an appropriate control group of non-irradiated prostate cancer patients. A meta-analysis was performed to assess the risk of prostatic radiotherapy on subsequent rectal cancer diagnosis.

RESULTS

In total, 4757 articles were screened with eight studies meeting the predetermined criteria. A total of 796,386 patients were included in this meta-analysis which showed an increased odds ratio (OR) for subsequent rectal cancer in prostate cancer patients treated with radiotherapy compared to those treated by non-radiotherapy means (OR 1.45, 1.07-1.97, p = 0.02).

CONCLUSION

These findings confirm that prostate radiotherapy significantly increases the risk of subsequent rectal cancer. This risk has implications for treatment selection, surveillance and patient counselling. However, it is crucial that this information is presented in a rational and comprehensible manner that does not disproportionately frighten or deter patients from what might be their most suitable treatment modality.

Extramural venous invasion (EMVI) in colorectal cancer is associated with increased cancer recurrence and cancer-related death

INTRODUCTION

Colorectal cancer (CRC) outcomes vary depending on tumour biology, with several features used to predict disease behaviour. Extramural venous invasion (EMVI) is associated with negative outcomes and its presence has been established as an indicator of more aggressive disease in CRC.

METHODS

A prospectively maintained database was examined for patients undergoing curative resection for non-metastatic CRC between 2012 and 2018 in a tertiary institution. Clinicopathological factors were compared to assess their impact on recurrence, all-cause mortality and cancer-related death. Kaplan Meier analysis of the association between EMVI and these endpoints was performed, and univariable and multivariable analysis was carried out to establish the relationship of predictive factors in oncological outcomes.

RESULTS

Eighty-eight (13.5%) of 654 patients developed recurrence. The mean time to recurrence was 19.8 ± 13.5 months. There were 36 (5.5%) cancer-related deaths at a mean duration of follow-up of 46.3 ± 21.6 months. Two hundred and sixty-six patients had extramural venous invasion (40.7%). EMVI was significantly associated with reduced overall recurrence-free survival, systemic recurrence-free survival, and increased cancer-related death on univariate analysis (p < 0.001 for all, Fig. 1), and multivariable analysis (OR 1.8 and 2.1 respectively, p < 0.05 for both).

CONCLUSION

EMVI is associated with a poor prognosis, independent of stage, nodal status and other histopathological features. The presence of EMVI should be strongly considered as an indication for adjuvant therapy.

Sigmoid volvulus: definitive surgery is safe and should be considered in all instances

Background

Acute sigmoid volvulus (ASV) represents a small but significant portion of cases of large bowel obstruction, especially in the elderly and co-morbid. Given the characteristics of the patient cohort most commonly affected, a non-operative/conservative approach is often undertaken but is associated with a high rate of recurrence.

Objective

We sought to evaluate outcomes for those patients who underwent non-operative management, emergency surgery or staged, semi-elective surgery following decompression for ASV at our institution.

Methods

Hospital in-patient enquiry (HIPE) data were used to identify all patients who presented with sigmoid volvulus between January 2005 and June 2020 inclusive. Patient notes were interrogated, including surgical and endoscopic procedures performed. Patient demographics and co-morbidities were recorded.

Results

Thirty-nine patients were treated over a 15-year period with a mean age of 73 years at first presentation (range 36–93). Twenty-two patients (56%) had just a single admission for ASV with three deaths in this group.

Seventeen patients (44%) had more than one admission with volvulus due to recurrence after a decompression-only strategy on the index admission. Of these, three succumbed to complications of their subsequent episodes of volvulus.

Twenty-five patients underwent surgical intervention (fifteen on, or shortly following, their first admission and ten following at least two admissions for ASV). The overall mortality in the operative group was 2/25 (8%) with both deaths in those undergoing emergency surgeries. Five patients were treated successfully with endoscopic measures alone and had required no further interventions at the time of compiling data.

Conclusion

There is a high recurrence rate following non-operative management of acute sigmoid volvulus and consequently, a cumulative increase in the attendant significant morbidity and mortality with subsequent episodes. Given the relatively low complication rate of definitive surgery, even in those patients perceived to be high risk, we contend that all patients should be considered for early surgery to prevent the likely recurrence of sigmoid volvulus.

The Protein Secretome Is Altered in Rectal Cancer Tissue Compared to Normal Rectal Tissue, and Alterations in the Secretome Induce Enhanced Innate Immune Responses

Simple Summary

Rectal cancer occurs in the lower part of the bowel, and approximately half of all rectal cancer patients receive chemoradiotherapy before surgery. In ~22% of cases the tumour is eradicated, but the reasons for different response rates between patients are largely unknown. Inflammation and the immune system are important players in the response to cancer treatment, but we do not fully understand the role they play in this clinical setting. We examined the levels of 54 inflammatory markers in normal (non-cancerous) rectal tissue and rectal cancer tissue, and we found that rectal cancer tissue was more inflammatory, and the levels of inflammatory markers correlated with obesity status. We found that irradiating rectal cancer tissue enhanced the ability of immune cells to induce an anti-tumour immune response.

Abstract

Locally advanced rectal cancer is treated with neoadjuvant-chemoradiotherapy; however, only ~22% of patients achieve a complete response, and resistance mechanisms are poorly understood. The role of inflammation and immune cell biology in this setting is under-investigated. In this study, we profiled the inflammatory protein secretome of normal (non-cancer) (n = 8) and malignant rectal tissue (n = 12) pre- and post-radiation in human ex vivo explant models and examined the influence of these untreated and treated secretomes on dendritic cell biology (n = 8 for cancer and normal). These resultant profiles were correlated with patient clinical characteristics. Nineteen factors were secreted at significantly higher levels from the rectal cancer secretome when compared to the normal rectal secretome; Flt-1, P1GF, IFN-γ, IL-6, IL-10, CCL20, CCL26, CCL22, CCL3, CCL4, CCL17, GM-CSF, IL-12/IL-23p40, IL-17A, IL-1α, IL-17A/F, IL-1RA, TSLP and CXCL10 (p < 0.05). Radiation was found to have differential effects on normal rectal tissue and rectal cancer tissue with increased IL-15 and CCL22 secretion following radiation from normal rectal tissue explants (p < 0.05), while no significant alterations were observed in the irradiated rectal cancer tissue. Interestingly, however, the irradiated rectal cancer secretome induced the most potent effect on dendritic cell maturation via upregulation of CD80 and PD-L1. Patient’s visceral fat area correlated with secreted factors including CCL20, suggesting that obesity status may alter the tumour microenvironment (TME). These results suggest that radiation does not have a negative effect on the ability of the rectal cancer TME to induce an immune response. Understanding these responses may unveil potential therapeutic targets to enhance radiation response and mitigate normal tissue injury. Tumour irradiation in this cohort enhances innate immune responses, which may be harnessed to improve patient treatment outcome.

Radiation-induced Bystander Effect (RIBE) alters mitochondrial metabolism using a human rectal cancer ex vivo explant model

Locally advanced rectal cancer is treated with neoadjuvant-chemoradiotherapy, however only 22% of patients achieve a complete response. Resistance mechanisms are poorly understood. Radiation-induced Bystander Effect (RIBE) describes the effect of radiation on neighbouring unirradiated cells. We investigated the effects of ex vivo RIBE-induction from normal and rectal cancer tissue on bystander cell metabolism, mitochondrial function and metabolomic profiling. We correlated bystander events to patient clinical characteristics.

Ex vivo RIBE-induction caused metabolic alterations in bystander cells, specifically reductions in OXPHOS following RIBE-induction in normal (p = 0.01) and cancer tissue (p = 0.03) and reduced glycolysis following RIBE-induction in cancer tissue (p = 0.01). Visceral fat area correlated with glycolysis (p = 0.02) and ATP production (p = 0.03) following exposure of cells to TCM from irradiated cancer biopsies. Leucine levels were reduced in the irradiated cancer compared to the irradiated normal secretome (p = 0.04). ROS levels were higher in cells exposed to the cancer compared to the normal secretome (p = 0.04).

RIBE-induction ex vivo causes alterations in the metabolome in normal and malignant rectal tissue along with metabolic alterations in bystander cellular metabolism. This may offer greater understanding of the effects of RIBE on metabolism, mitochondrial function and the secreted metabolome.

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RIBE induction ex vivo alters mitochondrial metabolism in bystander cells.

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Rectal cancer secretome increases ROS in bystander cells.

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Higher leucine levels in the irradiated normal rectal secretome compared to the irradiated rectal cancer secretome

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Glycolysis and ATP levels in bystander cells correlate with patient's visceral fat area.

Combining 1,4-dihydroxy quininib with Bevacizumab/FOLFOX alters angiogenic and inflammatory secretions in ex vivo colorectal tumors

Background

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the second most common cause of cancer-related mortality worldwide with one in every five patients diagnosed with metastatic CRC (mCRC). In mCRC cases, the 5-year survival rate remains at approximately 14%, reflecting the lack of effectiveness of currently available treatments such as the anti-VEGF targeting antibody Bevacizumab combined with the chemotherapy folinic acid, fluorouracil and oxaliplatin (FOLFOX). Approximately 60% of patients do not respond to this combined treatment. Furthermore, Bevacizumab inhibits dendritic cell (DC) maturation in poor responders, a key process for tumor eradication.

Method

Following drug treatment, secreted expression levels of angiogenic and inflammatory markers in tumor conditioned media generated from human ex vivo colorectal tumors were measured by ELISA. Dendritic cell phenotypic and maturation markers were assessed by flow cytometry.

Results

Our novel compound, 1,4-dihydroxy quininib, acts in an alternative pathway compared to the approved therapy Bevacizumab. 1,4-dihydroxy quininib alone, and in combination with Bevacizumab or FOLFOX significantly reduced TIE-2 expression which is involved in the promotion of tumor vascularization. Combination treatment with 1,4-dihydroxy quininib significantly increased the expression level of DC phenotypic and maturation markers.

Conclusion

Our results indicate the anti-angiogenic small molecule 1,4-dihydroxy quininib could be an alternative novel treatment in combination therapy for CRC patients.

Management of anal intraepithelial neoplasia and anal squamous cell carcinoma at a tertiary referral centre with a dedicated infectious diseases unit: an 18-year review

INTRODUCTION

Anal squamous cell carcinoma (ASCC) is a rare malignancy with rising incidence rates. Risk factors include human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection, high-risk sexual activity and HPV-related genitourinary dysplasia/neoplasia. There is an overlap between high-risk patients and those attending HIV Medicine/Sexual Health (HMSH) services. We hypothesised that HMSH involvement may facilitate earlier referral to colorectal surgeons, with better outcomes.

METHODS

Retrospective review of all ASCC and anal intraepithelial neoplasia (AIN) treated at a tertiary-referral hospital with a dedicated HMSH clinic between 2000 and 2018. Comparative analysis was performed of demographics, management and outcomes between HMSH and non-HMSH patients.

RESULTS

One hundred and nine patients had anal pathology, eighty-five with ASCC (78%) and twenty-four with AIN (22%). Seventy (64%) were male. Median (range) age at ASCC diagnosis was 51 years (26-88). Thirty-six percent of all patients attended HMSH services, 28% were HIV positive, and 41% of males were men-who-have-sex-with-men (MSM). Eighty-one ASCC patients (97.5%) were treated with curative intent. Sixty-seven (80%) had primary chemoradiation therapy. Fifteen (17.5%) had primary surgical excision. Twelve (14%) developed recurrent disease. Ultimately, seven required salvage APR. Overall 3-year survival (3YS) was 76%. HMSH patients were significantly younger at ASCC diagnosis (p < 0.001), with a higher prevalence of HIV, HPV and MSM. HMSH attenders also tended to be diagnosed at earlier stages, were less likely to develop recurrence and achieved better overall outcomes, with a superior overall 3YS than non-HMSH patients (92% vs 72%, p = 0.037).

CONCLUSION

ASCC incidence is increasing worldwide. The HMSH cohort has emerged as a distinct subpopulation of younger, high-risk, male patients. Collaboration between HMSH and colorectal surgeons offers an opportunity for risk reduction strategies and earlier intervention.

Management options for chronic anal fissure: a systematic review of randomised controlled trials

INTRODUCTION

Anal fissure is the most common cause of severe anorectal pain in adults, contributing significantly to coloproctology workloads. There are a wide variety of management options available, including topical nitrites, calcium channel blockers, botulinum toxin injection and sphincterotomy. The aim of this study was to review current options for the treatment of chronic anal fissure.

METHODS

A comprehensive search identifying randomized controlled trials comparing treatment options for anal fissure published between January 2000 and February 2020 was performed. The primary outcome assessed was healing at 8 weeks post commencing treatment. Secondary outcomes included recurrence, intolerance of treatment and complications.

RESULTS

A total of 2822 studies were identified. After removal of duplicates and non-relevant studies, we identified nine randomized controlled trials which met pre-defined criteria. There was a total of 775 patients. At 8 weeks, healing rates were 95.13% in those treated with sphincterotomy, 66.7% in the botulinum toxin group, 63.8% in the nitrate group, 52.3% for topical diltiazem and 50% for topical minoxidil. Recurrence was highest amongst those treated with botulinum toxin injection (41.7%) and lowest for sphincterotomy (6.9%). Although the absolute number is low, there was a risk of permanent incontinence with sphincterotomy.

CONCLUSION

This review of the randomized control data demonstrates that healing was significantly higher amongst those treated with sphincterotomy versus more conservative modalities. Topical nitrites had similar outcomes to botulinum toxin injection but were poorly tolerated in comparison to other treatments. The benefit of sphincterotomy was at a cost of increased complications, notably permanent incontinence.

Prophylactic negative pressure wound therapy for closed laparotomy wounds: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials

Surgical site infections are a common source of post-operative morbidity and contribute significantly to healthcare costs. Patients undergoing emergency laparotomy and/or bowel surgery are particularly at risk. Prophylactic negative pressure wound therapy (NPWT) has been shown to reduce wound infection. However, to date, there has been a lack of consensus around its use for closed laparotomy wounds. We conducted a systematic review of randomised controlled trials comparing the use of prophylactic negative pressure wound therapy with standard dressings for closed laparotomy incisions. The primary outcome was incidence of incisional surgical site infection (SSI) at 30 days post-operatively. Secondary outcomes included superficial and deep SSI, skin dehiscence, fascial dehiscence and length of stay. A total of 2182 publications were identified, of which, following review of titles, abstracts and full texts, five studies met the criteria for inclusion. Across these studies, 467 patients were randomised to NPWT and 464 to standard dressings. Overall SSI rate was 18.6% (n = 87/467) versus 23.9% (n = 111/464) in the NPWT and standard dressing groups, respectively (Odds ratio 0.71, 95% CI 0.52–0.99, p = 0.04*). Deep SSI incidence was the same in both groups (2.6%). Both skin dehiscence and fascial dehiscence were slightly higher in the standard dressing group ((4.2%, n = 11/263 versus 3.1% (n = 8/261) and (0.9% (n = 3/324) versus 0.6% (n = 2/323)), respectively. This study observed that NPWT reduces the overall SSI for closed laparotomy wounds. It supports data recommending the use of prophylactic NPWT dressings, especially in high-risk patients in both emergency and elective circumstances.

Should MRI Be the Imaging Modality of Choice in Suspected Appendicitis During Pregnancy?

Aim The aim of this review was to evaluate the efficacy of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in determining appendicitis during pregnancy. Methods We retrospectively reviewed the clinical course for all pregnant patients with suspected appendicitis from 2013-2018. We evaluated the efficacy of MRI and Alvarado scoring and its impact on management. Results Twenty-nine pregnant patients with suspected appendicitis had an MRI. The majority (90%, n=26/29) had normal diagnostics with two patients (10.3%) having findings consistent with acute appendicitis. Two other patients proceeded to laparoscopy, one with an inconclusive MRI, and one patient with clinical appendicitis. We found no accurate correlation between pregnancy and Alvarado scoring. Conclusion MRI is a safe adjunct in accurately diagnosing appendicitis in pregnancy. Its routine use could help reduce rates of negative appendectomies and the potential risk to maternal and fetal health.

Colonic stenting as a bridge to surgery in malignant large bowel obstruction: oncological outcomes

INTRODUCTION

Stenting of obstructing colorectal cancers obviates the need for emergency surgery, reducing initial morbidity and mortality rate associated with emergency surgery and facilitates full staging of the neoplastic process with an opportunity to optimize the patient for surgery. Some recent publications have suggested however that this approach may be associated with higher local recurrence rates. We examined our outcomes following colonic stenting as a bridge to resection.

METHODS

A database was reviewed (2006-2018) of patients presenting with acute colorectal obstruction that proceeded to endoscopic stenting. We assessed the bridge to surgery strategy, its success, complication rate, and impact on recurrence and survival.

RESULTS

Of a total of 103 patients who presented with acute malignant large bowel obstruction over this time period, 26 patients had potentially curable disease at presentation and underwent stenting as a bridge to surgery. The technical success rate for stenting in those managed as a bridge to surgery was 92% (n = 24/26) with 7.69% (n = 2/26) having a complication. There was one stent-related perforation. Median follow-up of this cohort was 31 months, with a 5-year overall survival of 53.5%.

CONCLUSION

Colorectal stenting as a bridge to resection is a successful management strategy for those presenting with obstructing colorectal obstruction. Selective use is associated with lower rates of stoma formation, greater rates of laparoscopic resections with low complication rates, and acceptable oncological outcomes.

Activated systemic inflammatory response at diagnosis reduces lymph node count in colonic carcinoma

AIM: To investigate a link between lymph node yield and systemic inflammatory response in colon cancer.

METHODS: A prospectively maintained database was interrogated. All patients undergoing curative colonic resection were included. Neutrophil lymphocyte ratio (NLR) and albumin were used as markers of SIR. In keeping with previously studies, NLR ≥ 4, albumin < 35 was used as cut off points for SIR. Statistical analysis was performed using 2 sample t-test and χ² tests where appropriate.

RESULTS: Three hundred and two patients were included for analysis. One hundred and ninety-five patients had NLR < 4 and 107 had NLR ≥ 4. There was no difference in age or sex between groups. Patients with NLR of ≥ 4 had lower mean lymph node yields than patients with NLR < 4 [17.6 ± 7.1 vs 19.2 ± 7.9 (P = 0.036)]. More patients with an elevated NLR had node positive disease and an increased lymph node ratio (≥ 0.25, P = 0.044).

CONCLUSION: Prognosis in colon cancer is intimately linked to the patient’s immune response. Assuming standardised surgical technique and sub specialty pathology, lymph node count is reduced when systemic inflammatory response is activated.

Oral tolerance to cancer can be abrogated by T regulatory cell inhibition

Oral administration of tumour cells induces an immune hypo-responsiveness known as oral tolerance. We have previously shown that oral tolerance to a cancer is tumour antigen specific, non-cross-reactive and confers a tumour growth advantage. We investigated the utilisation of regulatory T cell (Treg) depletion on oral tolerance to a cancer and its ability to control tumour growth. Balb/C mice were gavage fed homogenised tumour tissue--JBS fibrosarcoma (to induce oral tolerance to a cancer), or PBS as control. Growth of subcutaneous JBS tumours were measured; splenic tissue excised and flow cytometry used to quantify and compare systemic Tregs and T effector (Teff) cell populations. Prior to and/or following tumour feeding, mice were intraperitoneally administered anti-CD25, to inactivate systemic Tregs, or given isotype antibody as a control. Mice which were orally tolerised prior to subcutaneous tumour induction, displayed significantly higher systemic Treg levels (14% vs 6%) and faster tumour growth rates than controls (p<0.05). Complete regression of tumours were only seen after Treg inactivation and occurred in all groups--this was not inhibited by tumour feeding. The cure rates for Treg inactivation were 60% during tolerisation, 75% during tumour growth and 100% during inactivation for both tolerisation and tumour growth. Depletion of Tregs gave rise to an increased number of Teff cells. Treg depletion post-tolerisation and post-tumour induction led to the complete regression of all tumours on tumour bearing mice. Oral administration of tumour tissue, confers a tumour growth advantage and is accompanied by an increase in systemic Treg levels. The administration of anti-CD25 Ab decreased Treg numbers and caused an increase in Teffs. Most notably Treg cell inhibition overcame established oral tolerance with consequent tumor regression, especially relevant to foregut cancers where oral tolerance is likely to be induced by the shedding of tumour tissue into the gut.

Gastrointestinal Erdheim-Chester disease

We report a rare case of Erdheim-Chester Disease, a non-Langerhans cell histiocytosis. A 60-year old female presented with a seven-month history of vague abdominal symptoms. A large retroperitoneal mass was detected on computed tomography (CT), but multiple CT-guided biopsy samples were inconclusive. Laparoscopy revealed a mass in the distal ileum, which was resected. Histology and immuno-histochemistry supported a diagnosis of Erdheim-Chester Disease.

Primary colorectal lymphoma - A single centre experience

PURPOSE

The incidence of primary colorectal lymphoma (PCL) is rare (0.2-0.6% of large bowel malignancy). Up to one third of Non-Hodgkin's lymphoma will present with extra-nodal manifestations only. Extra-nodal lymphomas arise from tissues other than the lymph nodes and even from sites, which contain no lymphoid tissue. The incidence of Non-Hodgkin's lymphoma has increased over the past fifty years. The objective of this study was to examine our experience of PCL.

METHODS

A prospectively-compiled database (1988-2012) of patients with colorectal cancer was retrospectively examined for cases of colorectal lymphoma. A retrospective chart review identified cases of PCL based on Dawson's criteria. Clinical information was obtained from case notes.

RESULTS

Eleven patients (0.3% of 4219 patients) were identified (6 male, 5 female). The median age at diagnosis was 63 years. Mode of presentation varied; abdominal pain, a palpable mass and per rectal bleeding being the most frequent. The caecum was the most frequently involved site (5/11). Nine patients underwent surgical management, one had chemotherapy alone and one had radiotherapy alone. All cases were non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, with diffuse large B-cell lymphoma in majority. The median event-free survival of those treated with surgery and post-operative chemotherapy was 10 months (range 5-120 months).

CONCLUSION

Primary colorectal lymphoma is rare. Management is multidisciplinary and dependent on the subtype of lymphoma. Due to the rarity of diagnosis, there is a paucity of randomised control trials. Most information published is based on individual case reports and there is, thus, no clear treatment algorithm for these cases.

Seppuku: a modern approach to an ancient injury

A 67 year-old man with paraplegia and depression presented with self-inflicted evisceration and small bowel injury. Damage control surgery was undertaken at emergency laparotomy with definitive anastomosis performed at second-look laparotomy following 24 hours resuscitation in ICU. He had an uncomplicated post-operative course and was discharged to an inpatient psychiatric unit.

Multivisceral resection in colorectal cancer: a systematic review

BACKGROUND

The objective of this study was to critically evaluate current literature on outcomes following multivisceral resection (MVR) in colorectal cancer (CRC). Adequate surgical resection with clear margins is imperative in achieving long-term survival in colorectal cancer. Where there is adherence to or invasion of adjacent organs, (MVR) may be needed to achieve complete disease clearance.

METHODS

A systematic review of MVR in CRC was performed. Pubmed/Medline and Cochrane databases were searched for English language articles from 1995 to 2012 using a predefined strategy. Retrieved abstracts were independently screened for relevance and data extracted from selected studies by 2 researchers. Results are reported as weighted means.

RESULTS

Included were 22 studies comprising 1575 patients (87.0% primary colorectal cancer; 13.0% recurrent, 63.8% rectal; 36.2% colon). The most common organs resected were the bladder and reproductive organs. The perioperative mortality was 4.2% with morbidity of 41.5% (95% CI, 40.8-42.2%). The overall 5-year survival rate was 50.3% (95% CI, 49.9-50.8%). Surgery for recurrence was associated with worse outcomes than primary tumors with 5-year survival 19.5% (95% CI, 17.8-21.1%) for recurrent rectal cancer and primary rectal tumors 5-year overall survival 52.8% (95% CI, 52.0-53.8%). R0 resection was the strongest factor associated with long-term survival.

CONCLUSIONS

Multivisceral resection provides the best possibility of long-term survival in locally advanced primary colorectal cancer in which a clear margin has been achieved.

Curative surgical management of isolated adrenal recurrence of oesophageal adenocarcinoma

Adrenal metastases of oesophageal adenocarcinoma are rarely detected in the clinical setting, more frequently being found as an incidental postmortem finding in the presence of widespread metastases. With improvements in the sensitivity of radiological diagnostic modalities, the incidence of adrenal tumour detection is on the rise. We report herein a particularly rare case of primary operative management by adrenalectomy for an isolated right-sided adrenal metastasis secondary to oesophageal adenocarcinoma, with a long-term survival.

Necrotising pancreatitis presenting as a painful mass in the groin and sepsis

Acute pancreatitis is typically associated with classical clinical and radiological features. The sensitivity of CT to diagnose acute pancreatitis depends on the severity of the attack and ranges from 77% to 92% with a specificity approaching 100%. Despite the fact this is a common disease, there are myriad clinical presentations of acute pancreatitis. We report herein an especially rare presentation where severe acute necrotising pancreatitis presented with a tender inguinoscrotal swelling with a normal pancreas on CT imaging.

Re-laparoscopy in the diagnosis and treatment of postoperative complications following laparoscopic colorectal surgery

BACKGROUND

Laparoscopic colorectal surgery has increasingly become the standard of care in the management of both benign and malignant colorectal disease. We herein describe our experience with laparoscopy in the management of complications following laparoscopic colorectal surgery.

METHODS

Between November 2010 and July 2012, data were prospectively collected for all patients requiring surgical intervention for colorectal cancer. This was performed by a full-time colorectal cancer data manager.

RESULTS

A total of 203 patients had surgery for colorectal cancer during this period, 154 (75.9%) of which were performed laparoscopically and 49 (24.1%) performed by open surgery. Ten patients (4.9%) underwent surgery for complications of which 7 were following laparoscopic surgery. Two of these 7 patients had an exploratory laparotomy due to abdominal distension and haemodynamic instability. Laparoscopic surgical intervention was successful in diagnosing and treating the remaining 5 patients. Three of these patients developed small bowel obstruction which was managed by re-laparoscopy while in 2 patients there was a significant suspicion of an anastomotic leakage despite appropriate diagnostic imaging which was out ruled at laparoscopy.

CONCLUSIONS

Laparoscopy can frequently be used to diagnose and treat complications following laparoscopic colorectal surgery. This is another benefit associated with laparoscopic colorectal surgery which is rarely described and allows the benefits associated with the laparoscopic approach to be maintained.

Severe epigastric pain following a birthday party

Epigastric pain is a very common symptom which can be caused by a wide range of clinical conditions. A 28 year old male presented to our clinic with new onset severe epigastric pain. As part of the routine work up for pain of this nature, we proceeded to upper gastrointestinal endoscopy. A toothpick was found lodged in the antral gastric wall with a resulting inflammatory mass abutting the free edge. It was removed successfully with full resolution of symptoms, however a review of the literature shows that ingested toothpicks can cause major morbidity.

Multivisceral resection for T4 or recurrent colorectal cancer

BACKGROUND

Approximately 10% of patients with colorectal cancer have locally advanced disease with peritoneal involvement (T4a) or invasion of adjacent organs (T4b) at the time of diagnosis. Of patients who undergo resection with curative intent, between 7 and 33% develop isolated locoregional recurrences. R0 surgical excision is potentially curative.

METHODS

We reviewed the literature relating to multivisceral resection for T4 or recurrent colorectal cancer.

RESULTS

Comprehensive staging to identify the local and systemic extent of disease is essential to determine resectability and patient suitability for a curative approach. PET scans and pelvic MRI (rectal) staging and a coordinated multispecialty input to neoadjuvant treatment, multivisceral surgical resection, reconstruction and adjuvant chemotherapy are essential. Intraoperative radiotherapy and hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy may have a role in selected patients. R0 resection can achieve 5-year local control rates for primary locally advanced and recurrent colorectal cancer of up to 89 and 38%, respectively, and overall 5-year survival up to 66 and 25%, respectively.

CONCLUSION

An aggressive surgical strategy as part of a multimodal strategy in the treatment of locally advanced or recurrent colorectal cancer in the absence of incurable metastatic disease affords the best prospect for long-term survival in selected patients.

Metastatic paediatric colorectal carcinoma

A 16-year-old girl presented to our unit with crampy abdominal pain, change in bowel habit, a subjective impression of weight loss and a single episode of haematochezia. She was found to have a rectosigmoid adenocarcinoma and proceeded to laparoscopic anterior resection, whereupon peritoneal metastases were discovered. She received chemotherapy and is alive and well ten month later with no radiological evidence of disease. Colorectal carcinoma is rare in the paediatric population but is increasing in incidence. Early diagnosis is critical to enable optimal outcomes.

Internal hernia following total gastrectomy with Roux-en-Y reconstruction

Internal herniation is a well-described complication after a gastric bypass, particularly when performed laparoscopically, although it is rarely described following a total gastrectomy. A 55-year-old lady presented with a 24-hour history of vomiting and rigors 10 months after a radical total gastrectomy with Roux-en-Y reconstruction for a gastric adenocarcinoma. Computed tomography (CT) showed a complete small bowel obstruction and a mesenteric swirl sign, indicating a possible internal hernia. The entire small bowel was found at laparotomy to have migrated through the mesenteric defect adjacent to the site of the previous jejunojejunostomy and was dark purple and aperistaltic. The small bowel was reduced through the defect. At a second laparotomy, the small bowel looked healthy and the defect was repaired. Postoperative recovery was unremarkable. Of numerous signs described, the mesenteric swirl sign is considered the best indicator on CT of an internal hernia following Roux-en-Y reconstruction in gastric bypass surgery. A swirl sign on CT in a patient with abdominal pain should always raise the suspicion of an internal hernia.

Differential pathologic variables and outcomes across the spectrum of adenocarcinoma of the esophagogastric junction

BACKGROUND

Adenocarcinoma of the esophagogastric junction (AEG) as described by Siewert et al. is classified as one entity in the latest (7th Edition) American Joint Cancer Committee/International Union Against Cancer (AJCC/UICC) manual, compared with the previous mix of esophageal and gastric staging systems. The origin of AEG tumors, esophageal or gastric, and their biology remain controversial, particularly for AEG type II (cardia) tumors.

METHODS

We adapted a large prospective database (n = 520: 180 type I, 182 type II, 158 type III) to compare AEG tumors under the new TNM system Pathological variables associated with prognosis were compared (pT, pN, stage, differentiation, R status, lymphovascular invasion, perineural involvement, number of positive nodes, percent of positive nodes, and tumor length), as well as overall survival.

RESULTS

Compared with AEG type I tumors, type II and type III tumors had significantly (p < 0.05) more advanced pN stages, greater number and percentage of positive nodes, poorer differentiation, more radial margin involvement, and more perineural invasion. In AEG type I, 14/180 patients (8%) had >6 involved nodes (pN3), compared with 16 and 30% of patients classified type II and III, respectively. Median survival was significantly (p = 0.03) improved for type I patients (38 months) compared with those with tumors classified as type II (28 months) and type III (24 months). In multivariate analysis node positivity and pN staging but not AEG site had an impact on survival.

CONCLUSIONS

In this series AEG type I is associated with more favorable pathologic features and improved outcomes compared with AEG type II and III. This may reflect earlier diagnosis, but an alternative possibility, that type I may be a unique paradigm with more favorable biology, requires further study.

Sonoporation mediated immunogene therapy of solid tumors

Development of gene-based therapies for the treatment of inherited and acquired diseases, including cancer, has seen renewed interest in the use of nonviral vectors coupled to physical delivery modalities. Low-frequency ultrasound (US), with a well-established record in a clinical setting, has the potential to deliver DNA efficiently, accurately and safely. Optimal in vivo parameters for US-mediated delivery of naked plasmid DNA were established using the firefly luciferase reporter gene construct. Optimized parameters were used to administer a therapeutic gene construct, coding for granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor (GM-CSF) and B7-1 costimulatory molecule, to growing murine fibrosarcoma tumors. Tumor progression and animal survival was monitored throughout the study and the efficacy of the US-mediated gene therapy determined and compared with an electroporation-based approach. Optimal parameters for US-mediated delivery of plasmid DNA to tumors were deduced to be 1.0 W/cm(2) at 20% duty cycle for 5 min (60 J/cm(2)). In vivo US-mediated gene therapy resulted in a 55% cure rate in tumor-bearing animals. The immunological response invoked was cell mediated, conferring resistance against re-challenge and resistance to tumor challenge after transfer of splenocytes to naïve animals. US treatment was noninjurious to treated tissue, whereas therapeutic efficacy was comparable to an electroporation-based approach. US-mediated delivery of an immune-gene construct to growing tumors was therapeutically effective. Sonoporation has the potential to be a major factor in the development of nonviral gene delivery approaches.

Management of gastro-bronchial fistula complicating a subtotal esophagectomy: a case report

Background

The development of a fistula between the tracheobronchial tree and the gastric conduit post esophagectomy is a rare and often fatal complication.

Case presentation

A 68 year old man underwent radical esophagectomy for esophageal adenocarcinoma. On postoperative day 14 the nasogastric drainage bag dramatically filled with air, without deterioration in respiratory function or progressive sepsis. A fiberoptic bronchoscopy was performed which demonstrated a gastro-bronchial fistula in the posterior aspect of the left main bronchus. He was managed conservatively with antibiotics, enteral nutrition via jejunostomy, and non-invasive respiratory support. A follow- up bronchoscopy 60 days after the diagnostic bronchoscopy, confirmed spontaneous closure of the fistula

Conclusions

This is the first such case where a conservative approach with no surgery or endoprosthesis resulted in a successful outcome, with fistula closure confirmed at subsequent bronchoscopy. Our experience would suggest that in very carefully selected cases where bronchopulmonary contamination from the fistula is minimal or absent, there is no associated inflammation of the tracheobronchial tree and the patient is stable from a respiratory point of view without evidence of sepsis, there may be a role for a trial of conservative management.

Recurrent sigmoid volvulus - early resection may obviate later emergency surgery and reduce morbidity and mortality

INTRODUCTION

Acute sigmoid volvulus is a well recognised cause of acute large bowel obstruction.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

We reviewed our unit's experience with non-operative and operative management of this condition. A total of 27 patients were treated for acute sigmoid volvulus between 1996 and 2006. In total, there were 62 separate hospital admissions.

RESULTS

Eleven patients were managed with colonoscopic decompression alone. The overall mortality rate for non-operative management was 36.4% (4 of 11 patients). Fifteen patients had operative management (five semi-elective following decompression, 10 emergency). There was no mortality in the semi-elective cohort and one in the emergency surgery group. The overall mortality for surgery was 6% (1 of 15). Five of the seven patients managed with colonoscopic decompression alone who survived were subsequently re-admitted with sigmoid volvulus (a 71.4% recurrence rate). The six deaths in our overall series each occurred in patients with established gangrene of the bowel. With early surgical intervention before the onset of gangrene, however, good outcomes may be achieved, even in patients apparently unsuitable for elective surgery. Eight of the 15 operatively managed patients were considered to be ASA (American Society of Anesthesiologists) grade 4. There was no postoperative mortality in this group.

CONCLUSIONS

Given the high rate of recurrence of sigmoid volvulus after initial successful non-operative management and the attendant risks of mortality from gangrenous bowel developing with a subsequent volvulus, it is our contention that all patients should be considered for definitive surgery after initial colonoscopic decompression, irrespective of the ASA score.